15 Perfect Plants for Your West-Facing Windows
West-facing windows offer the perfect amount of afternoon sunlight for many plants to thrive. If you are looking to add some greenery to your home, choosing the right plants for this light can make all the difference. Plants that love bright, indirect light or can handle a bit of direct sunlight are perfect for these spots. Not only do these plants help purify the air, but they also add a refreshing touch to any room. Whether you are a seasoned plant owner or a beginner, there are plenty of options that will suit your space. From low-maintenance succulents to vibrant flowering plants, there is something for everyone.
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Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Snake plants are ideal for west-facing windows because they adapt well to indirect sunlight, though they can also handle short bursts of direct sunlight. With their upright, sword-shaped leaves, they create a striking visual in any room. These plants are also known for their air-purifying properties, helping to remove toxins from the air.
They require minimal care and are incredibly low-maintenance. Snake plants only need to be watered occasionally, as their thick leaves store water. Overwatering is the most common mistake, so it is important to let the soil dry out before watering again. They are perfect for busy people who still want to enjoy a healthy, green plant.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are another excellent option for a west-facing window due to their ability to thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Their cascading green leaves with white stripes make them an eye-catching addition to any room. Spider plants are easy to care for and can tolerate a range of light conditions.
These plants are well-known for their air-purifying qualities, making them beneficial for indoor environments. They need to be watered regularly, but the soil should not stay wet for too long. Spider plants can also be propagated by cutting off their offshoots and replanting them. They are ideal for beginners and anyone looking to add greenery to their home with minimal effort.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera loves bright light and can thrive in the afternoon sunlight provided by a west-facing window. This succulent not only adds beauty to a room but also offers numerous health benefits. The gel inside its thick, fleshy leaves is known for its soothing properties and can be used to treat burns, cuts, and other skin issues.
Aloe vera is a low-maintenance plant that requires well-draining soil and occasional watering. It is important to let the soil dry completely between waterings to avoid root rot. This plant thrives in dry conditions and can go for long periods without water. It is a great option for those looking for a plant that offers both aesthetic appeal and practical use.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos plants thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, including the bright, indirect sunlight provided by a west-facing window. Their trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves make them a favorite for hanging baskets or shelves. Pothos plants are easy to care for and very forgiving, making them perfect for beginners.
These plants are known for their air-purifying abilities, as they remove toxins like formaldehyde from the air. They are also drought-tolerant, making them a low-maintenance option. Pothos only need to be watered when the soil has dried out, and they can be propagated easily by cutting their vines. Their long, lush vines will quickly fill any space with green, creating a lively atmosphere.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant thrives in a variety of light conditions, including bright, indirect light, making it ideal for west-facing windows. This plant has glossy, dark green leaves that give it a sleek, modern look. The ZZ plant is known for its resilience, as it can survive in low light and endure periods of neglect.
ZZ plants do not need frequent watering and can thrive on minimal care. It is essential to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. This plant also tolerates dry air, which makes it perfect for homes with air conditioning or heating. With its minimal upkeep, the ZZ plant is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a low-maintenance indoor plant.
Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Jade plants love bright light and thrive in the afternoon sunlight provided by a west-facing window. With their thick, glossy leaves and tree-like structure, they make a striking addition to any space. Jade plants are slow-growing but long-lived, making them a great investment for your home.
These succulents require well-draining soil and only need to be watered when the soil has completely dried out. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to be cautious when watering. Jade plants are perfect for those who appreciate a low-maintenance plant that can add both beauty and longevity to their home.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace lilies thrive in medium to bright indirect light, making them an excellent choice for a west-facing window. Known for their elegant white flowers and glossy green leaves, peace lilies add a touch of sophistication to any room. These plants are also great for purifying indoor air, removing toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde.
Peace lilies prefer to be kept moist, but their soil should not be soggy. They are relatively forgiving and will tolerate occasional neglect. A consistent watering schedule is best, and they will thrive in a humid environment. Peace lilies are perfect for anyone looking for a beautiful, air-purifying plant with minimal care.
Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
Fiddle leaf figs love bright, indirect light, making them perfect for a west-facing window. Their large, glossy leaves create a bold statement and add a touch of drama to any room. Over time, this plant can grow quite tall, making it a fantastic focal point in your home.
Though they love bright light, fiddle leaf figs do not tolerate direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves. They prefer slightly moist soil but should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Fiddle leaf figs also benefit from regular pruning to maintain their shape and promote healthy growth. With the right care, they can grow into a beautiful and impressive plant.
Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Rubber plants do well in bright, indirect light, making them a great option for west-facing windows. Their large, waxy leaves are dark green, adding elegance to any space. Over time, rubber plants can grow quite large and become a striking focal point in your home.
While they prefer their soil to remain slightly moist, rubber plants are very sensitive to overwatering. It is essential to let the top layer of soil dry out before watering again. They also benefit from occasional pruning to maintain their shape. With proper care, rubber plants are a low-maintenance and long-lasting addition to your home.
English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English ivy thrives in bright, indirect light, making it a great choice for a west-facing window. Its trailing vines and lush green leaves create a beautiful cascading effect, making it perfect for hanging baskets or placed along shelves. English ivy is also known for its air-purifying qualities, helping to remove pollutants from the air.
This plant requires regular watering, but the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings to avoid root rot. English ivy is a fast-growing plant, so it may require frequent pruning to keep it under control. It can also be trained to grow along trellises or walls, adding a touch of greenery to any room.
Philodendron
Philodendrons thrive in medium to bright indirect light, making them well-suited for a west-facing window. Their heart-shaped leaves come in various sizes, and their trailing vines can quickly fill up a room with lush green foliage. Philodendrons are very forgiving and easy to care for, making them ideal for beginners.
These plants need to be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is best to let the soil dry out between waterings. Philodendrons are also perfect for adding greenery to your home as they grow quickly and easily. Their low-maintenance nature makes them an excellent choice for anyone looking to brighten up their living space.
Cast-Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
The cast-iron plant is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that can survive in a variety of light conditions, including the indirect light from a west-facing window. Its large, dark green leaves make it a striking addition to any home. As its name suggests, the cast-iron plant is nearly indestructible and can handle neglect and low light levels.
This plant requires minimal care and can go without watering for extended periods. It prefers slightly moist soil, but it is important not to overwater. The cast-iron plant is perfect for those who want a resilient, low-maintenance plant that still adds beauty and elegance to their home.
Begonia
Begonias thrive in bright, indirect light, making them perfect for a west-facing window that receives filtered sunlight. These plants produce vibrant, colorful flowers in shades of pink, red, and white, adding a cheerful burst of color to your home. Begonias also have attractive, textured leaves that make them visually appealing even when not in bloom.
Begonias prefer moist soil, but they should not be waterlogged. The soil should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings, and regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer will promote healthy blooms. These plants also thrive in a humid environment, making them ideal for bathrooms or kitchens. They are perfect for those who want a colorful, easy-to-care-for plant.
African Violet (Saintpaulia)
African violets are well-suited for a west-facing window because they thrive in bright, indirect light. Their vibrant flowers, which come in shades of purple, pink, and white, make them a popular choice for indoor plants. African violets are compact, making them ideal for windowsills or small spaces.
These plants require slightly moist soil and should not be allowed to dry out completely. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to water them carefully. African violets benefit from regular feeding to promote healthy growth and flowering. They are a great addition to any home, providing both beauty and ease of care.
Cactus
Cacti thrive in bright, direct sunlight, which makes them ideal for a west-facing window that receives afternoon sun. Their thick, fleshy stems store water, allowing them to survive in dry conditions. Cacti come in various shapes and sizes, from small, rounded species to tall, spiky varieties.
These plants are extremely low-maintenance and only need to be watered once the soil has completely dried out. Cacti are perfect for anyone who often forgets to water their plants, as they are built to withstand drought conditions. They are a unique and striking addition to your home, offering both beauty and low-maintenance care.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.